Investment Loans Types & Features
Whether you are looking for your first investment property or next, we can help you find a flexible home loan that suits your needs, with support from our Loan Experts every step of the way.
It’s a big decision, so it’s good to have someone there to help you make the right one.
Buying a property is one of the biggest things you’ll do in life. We’re here to help you by making sure you have the info and options you need to find the finance solution you’re looking for (for the house you want).
There are so many home loans to choose from, with new ones always being introduced, not to mention special offers and other ‘deals’. As a broker we’ll not only help you find a loan that suits your particular needs, but we’ll also help you complete the paperwork, and submit the application for you.
It’s why more than half of Australian borrowers now use a broker to secure a home loan.
Before you call us you might like to get a better understanding of what’s available by visiting our Different Loan Types section.
If you want to get a better idea of your borrowing power and what your likely repayments might be, try out our Loan Experts.
At anytime on your home buying ‘journey’, feel free to give us a call or email us and we’ll do everything we can to make it easier for you.
Variable
Standard variable loans are the most popular home loan in Australia. Interest rates go up or down over the life of the loan depending on the official rate set by the Reserve Bank of Australia and funding costs and the individual decisions of each lender. Your regular repayments generally pay off both the interest and some of the principal.
You may also be able to choose a basic variable loan, which offers a discounted interest rate but has fewer loan features, such as a redraw facility and repayment flexibility.
Pros
- If interest rates fall, the size of your minimum repayments will too.
- Standard variable loans generally allow you to make extra repayments. Even small extra payments can cut the length and cost of your mortgage.
- Basic variable loans often don’t come with a redraw facility, removing the temptation to spend money you’ve already paid off your loan.
Cons
- If interest rates rise, the size of your repayments will too.
- Increased loan repayments due to rate rises could impact your household budget, so make sure you take potential interest rate hikes into account when working out how much money to borrow.
- You need to be disciplined around the redraw facility on a standard variable loan. If you dip into it too often, it will take much longer and cost more to pay off your loan.
- If you have a basic variable loan, you may not be able to pay it off quicker or get access to money you have already repaid if you ever need it.
Fixed
The interest rate is fixed for a certain period, usually the first one to five years of the loan. This means your regular repayments stay the same regardless of changes in interest rates. At the end of the fixed period you can decide whether to fix the rate again, at whatever rate lenders are offering, or move to a variable loan.
Pros
- Your regular repayments are unaffected by increases in interest rates.
- You can manage your household budget better during the fixed period, knowing exactly how much is needed to repay your home loan
Cons
- If interest rates go down, you don’t benefit from the decrease. Your regular repayments stay the same.
- You can end up paying more than someone with a variable loan if rates remain higher under your agreed fixed rate for a prolonged period.
- There is very limited opportunity for additional repayments during the fixed rate period.
- There may be significant break costs that you must pay if you exit the loan before the end of the fixed rate period.
Split rate loans
Your loan amount is split, so one part is variable, and the other is fixed. You decide on the proportion of variable and fixed. You enjoy some of the flexibility of a variable loan along with some of the certainty of a fixed rate loan.
Pros
- Your regular repayments will vary less if interest rates increase, making it easier to budget.
- If interest rates fall, your regular repayments on the variable portion will too.
- You can generally repay the variable part of the loan quicker if you wish.
Cons
- If interest rates rise, your regular repayments on the variable portion will too.
- Your additional repayments of the fixed rate portion will be limited.
- There may be significant break costs that you must pay if you exit the fixed portion of the loan early.
Interest only
You repay only the interest on the amount borrowed usually for the first one to five years of the loan, although some lenders offer longer terms. Because you’re not also paying off the principal, your monthly repayments are lower. At the end of the interest-only period, you begin to pay off both interest and principal. These loans are especially popular with investors who plan to pay off the principal when the property is sold. This strategy is usually reliant on the property having achieved capital growth before it is sold.
Pros
- Lower regular repayments during the interest only period.
- If it is not a fixed rate loan, there may be flexibility to pay off, and possibly redraw, the principal at your convenience during the interest-only period.
Cons
- The overall cost of the loan is likely to be significantly higher.
- At the end of the interest only period you have the same level of debt as when you started.
- If you’re not able to extend your interest-only period your repayments will increase at the end of the interest-only period.
- You could face a sudden increase in regular repayments at the end of the interest-only period.
Line of Credit
You can pay into and withdraw from your home loan every month, so long as you keep up the regular required repayments. Many people choose to have their salary paid into their line of credit account. This type of loan is good for people who want maximum flexibility in their access to funds.
Pros
- You can use your income to help reduce interest charges and pay off your mortgage quicker.
- Provides great flexibility for you to access available funds.
- Simplifies your banking into one account
Cons
- Without proper monitoring and discipline, you won’t pay off the principal and will continue to carry or increase your level of debt.
- Line of credit loans usually carry higher interest rates than a standard variable mortgage.
Introductory/Honeymoon
Originally designed for first-home buyers, but now available more widely, introductory loans offer a discounted interest rate for the first 6 to 12 months, before the rate reverts to the usual variable interest rate.
Pros
- Lower regular repayments for an initial ‘honeymoon’ period.
Cons
- Loans may have restrictions, such as no redraw facilities, for the entire length of the loan.
- When the honeymoon rate period ends a homeowner may be locked into an interest rate that is not as competitive as elsewhere.
- Some banks may charge early termination fees if you decide to switch to a new lender.
Low Doc
Popular with self-employed people, these loans require less documentation or proof of income than most, but often carry higher interest rates or require a larger deposit because of the perceived higher lender risk. In most cases you will be financially better off getting together full documentation for another type of loan. But if this isn’t possible, a low doc loan may be your best opportunity to borrow money.
Pros
- Lower requirement for evidence of income.
Cons
- You will probably pay higher interest than with other home loan types, or may need a larger deposit, or both.
Here’s a guide to common loan features and benefits
Of course, not all of these features will be available on every loan. You can ask us about any that interest you.
Interest Only Repayments
You only pay the interest on the loan, not the principal, usually for the first one to five years although some lenders offer longer terms. Some lenders give borrowers the option of a further interest-only period. Because you’re not paying off the principal, your monthly repayments are lower. These loans are especially popular with investors who pay off the principal when the property is sold. This strategy is usually reliant on the property having achieved capital growth before it is sold.
Extra Repayments
If you pay more than the required regular repayment, the extra amount may be deducted from the principal. This not only reduces the amount you owe but lowers the amount of interest you repay. Making extra repayments regularly, even small ones, is the best way to pay off your home loan quicker and save on interest charges.
Weekly or Fornightly Repayments
Instead of a regular monthly repayment, you pay off your home loan weekly or fortnightly. This can suit people who are paid on a weekly or fortnightly basis, and will save you money because you end up making more payments in a year, cutting the life of the loan.
Redraw facility
This typically allows you to access any extra repayments you have made. Knowing you have access to funds can provide peace of mind. Be aware lenders may charge a redraw fee and have a minimum redraw amount. There might also be other restrictions on when funds can be redrawn.
Repayment holiday
You may be able to take a complete break from repayments, or make reduced repayments, for an agreed period of time. This can be useful for travel, maternity leave or a career change.
Offset account
This is a savings account linked to your home loan. Money paid into the savings account is deducted from the balance of your home loan before interest is calculated. The more money you save, the lower your regular home loan repayments. You can often access your savings in the usual way, by EFTPOS and ATMs. This is a great way to reduce your loan interest, as well as eliminate the tax bill on your savings. Be aware the account may have higher monthly fees or require a minimum balance or have other restrictions.
Direct debit
Your lender automatically draws repayments from a chosen bank account. Apart from ensuring there is enough cash in the account, you don’t have to remember to make repayments.
All in one home loan
This combines a home loan with a cheque, savings and credit card account. You can have your salary paid into it directly. By keeping cash in the account for as long as possible each month you can reduce the interest charges. Used with discipline, the all-in-one feature offers both flexibility and interest savings. Interest rates charged for these loans can be higher.
Professional package
Home loans over a certain value are offered at a discounted rate, combined with discounted fees on other banking services. These can be attractively priced, but if you don’t use the banking services you may be better off with a basic variable loan.
Portable loans
If you sell your current property and buy somewhere else you can take your home loan with you. This can save time and set-up fees, but you may incur other charges.
Let’s buy a home together.
It’s a big decision, so it’s good to have someone there to help you make the right one.
Buying a home is one of the biggest things you’ll do in life. We’re here to help you by making sure you have the info and options you need to find the finance solution you’re looking for (for the house you want).
There are so many home loans to choose from, with new ones always being introduced, not to mention special offers and other ‘deals’. As a broker we’ll not only help you find a loan that suits your particular needs, but we’ll also help you complete the paperwork, and submit the application for you.
It’s why more than half of Australian borrowers now use a broker to secure a home loan.
Before you use a broker you might like to get a better understanding of what’s available by visiting our Different Loan Types page.
If you want to get a better idea of your borrowing power and what your likely repayments might be, try out our online calculators.
At anytime on your home buying ‘journey’, feel free to give us a call or email us and we’ll do everything we can to make it easier for you.
Common questions for home buyers
How much money can I borrow?
We’re all unique when it comes to our finances and borrowing needs. Get an estimate on how much you may be able to borrow (subject to satisfying legal and lender requirements) with our selection of calculators. Or contact us today, we can help with calculations based on your circumstances.
How do I choose a loan that’s right for me?
Our guides to loan types and features will help you learn about the main options available. There are hundreds of different home loans available, so talk to us today.
How much do I need for a deposit?
Usually between 5% – 10% of the value of a property, which you pay when signing a Contract of Sale. Speak with us to discuss your options for a deposit. You may be able to borrow against the equity in your existing home or an investment property.
How much will regular repayments be?
Go to our Repayment Calculator for an estimate. Because there so many different loan products, some with lower introductory rates, talk to us today about the deals currently available, we’ll work with you to find a loan set-up that’s right for you.
How often do I make home loan repayments — weekly, fortnightly or monthly?
Most lenders offer flexible repayment options to suit your pay cycle. Aim for weekly or fortnightly repayments, instead of monthly, as you will make more payments in a year, which will shave dollars and time off your loan.
What fees/costs should I budget for?
There are a number of fees and costs involved when buying a property. To help avoid any surprises, the list below sets out many of the usual costs:
- Stamp duty — This is the big one. All other costs are relatively small by comparison. Stamp duty rates vary between state and territory governments and also depend on the value of the property you buy. You may also have to pay stamp duty on the mortgage itself. To estimate your possible stamp duty charge, visit our Stamp Duty Calculator.
- Legal/conveyancing fees — Generally around $1,000 – $1500, these fees cover all the legal requirements around your property purchase, including title searches.
- Building inspection — This should be carried out by a qualified expert, such as a structural engineer, before you purchase the property. Your Contract of Sale should be subject to the building inspection, so if there are any structural problems you have the option to withdraw from the purchase without any significant financial penalties. A building inspection and report can cost up to $1,000, depending on the size of the property. Your conveyancer will usually arrange this inspection, and you will usually pay for it as part of their total invoice at settlement (in addition to the conveyancing fees).
- Pest inspection — Also to be carried out before purchase to ensure the property is free of problems, such as white ants. Your Contract of Sale should be subject to the pest inspection, so if any unwanted crawlies are found you may have the option to withdraw from the purchase without any significant financial penalties. Allow up to $500 depending on the size of the property. Your real estate agent or conveyancer may arrange this inspection, and you will usually pay for it as part of their total invoice at settlement (in addition to the conveyancing fees).
- Lender costs — Most lenders charge establishment fees to help cover the costs of their own valuation as well as administration fees. We will let you know what your lender charges but allow about $600 to $800.
- Moving costs — Don’t forget to factor in the cost of a removalist if you plan on using one.
- Mortgage Insurance costs — If you borrow more than 80% of the purchase price of the property, you’ll also need to pay Lender Mortgage Insurance. You may also consider whether to take out Mortgage Protection Insurance. If you buy a strata title, regular strata fees are payable.
- Ongoing costs — You will need to include council and water rates along with regular loan repayments. It is important to also consider building insurance and contents insurance. Your lender will probably require a minimum sum insured for the building to cover the loan.
